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Mummy Said the F-Word
Single mum. Awful ex-husband with his shiny new girlfriend. And now a scary, overwhelming new job.Bambino is a glossy, weekly parenting magazine aimed at 'yummy mummies'. Their ideal mother always looks immaculate, never lets her children watch TV and only ever eats organic food . . . So when Cait, a chaotic single mother, becomes Bambino's agony aunt, she thinks she might be the single worst person to do the job. But despite her early unwillingness, she realises gradually that the women who are writing to her really do need help. Soon she finds herself taking her own advice, not only for raising her child but also for her very messy love life . . .Can she finally become one of the "perfect" mothers that she sees reading her magazine every week? Or will she always be one step behind?And, after all this time, will she be able find true love?
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2008
211 people are currently reading
726 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Gibson
50 books509 followersFiona is an author and journalist who has written for many UK publications including The Observer, The Guardian, Marie Claire, Red, New Woman, Top Sante and Elle. She writes a monthly column for Sainsbury’s magazine and is a Contributing Editor at Red magazine.
Fiona lives in Scotland with her husband, their twin sons and daughter. She likes to draw, run 10k races, play her saxophone and lie in the bath with a big glass of wine, although not all at once.
Fiona lives in Scotland with her husband, their twin sons and daughter. She likes to draw, run 10k races, play her saxophone and lie in the bath with a big glass of wine, although not all at once.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
June 20, 2011
New book alert! I just love them. This book was so predictable, but still enjoyable, so I kind of didn’t care. Such an easy quick read. Man leaves Women and three kids. Best Friend is editor of a children’s magazine and ropes women into writing for it on the “question and answer” page. She realizes it’s hard work, but finds fulfilment in her readers questions. She is friends with a single dad, whose kid is friends with one of her kids. One of the reader’s writes in and she responds personally back and starts up a correspondence. Gee, I wonder where this is going! Oddly enough, not where you think, but not far off. The guy she is writing too, is NOT the friend! But she does end up with him anyway. The writing was easy and chatty and obviously, filled with curse words. Life for the single mother is hard, but it’s not that big a deal nor is it thrown away on the backburner. Predictable, but a fun read.
Grade: C+
Grade: C+
April 27, 2024
This book lived up to its being a laugh- out loud book, which was so funny and so true of parenthood in its many stages. It was lightly entertaining and kept me reading long into the night. Very good book and recommended to put a smile on the readers face.
August 18, 2019
This is a book I bought many years ago, put on my shelf and forgot about. It's now 11 years since it's been published and as I've been reading a lot of older British rom-coms that have just been sitting on my shelf, I'm finding that it's a genre that does not age well at all. Except this one! You could have told me that it had been written in 2019 and I'd believe you. A thoroughly enjoyable read, cute, fun, ticks all the boxes of the genre.
February 22, 2025
Loved this book! I think I laughed out loud at least once each chapter! The main character is hilarious and just says it how it is and so true to life! The writing is cleverly put together. I've since downloaded another of Fiona's books. Easy, great holiday/or when you want to feel lifted, read.
September 15, 2022
So funny!
If you want to read a good book by a brilliant author that will make you laugh out loud, cry and exhale deeply with satisfaction then this is the book for you. I cannot say enough good things about the storyline, characters or length. I will not spoil it for other readers but if you enjoy a good read then this one is for you!
If you want to read a good book by a brilliant author that will make you laugh out loud, cry and exhale deeply with satisfaction then this is the book for you. I cannot say enough good things about the storyline, characters or length. I will not spoil it for other readers but if you enjoy a good read then this one is for you!
November 21, 2015
Another fantastic read from Fiona Gibson, I enjoyed it from start to finish. And I love a book that leaves me smiling.
November 11, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was entertaining and funny. Just what I was looking for. Can't wait to start another Fiona Gibson book.
July 13, 2025
This review also features on Diary of an Ink Drinker
If you've ever handed your child a fizzy drink or a packet of sweets just to buy yourself a moment of peace, even though you know you're 'not supposed to', then Mummy Said the F-word is the book for you.
Told from the perspective of Cait, a frazzled, newly single mother of three, the story opens in the aftermath of her husband's affair and abrupt departure. Left to juggle the emotional fallout of her failed marriage while trying to provide a stable home for her children, Cait's journey is as chaotic and complex as parenting itself. Her daily 'walk of shame' past the school's PTA crowd, a clique of seemingly perfect parents, is painfully familiar for anyone who's ever felt like the odd one out at the school gates.
As Cait stumbles through the early stages of single parenthood, she leans heavily on her network of friends, who offer both support and distraction in equal measure. Through this, she lands an unexpected role as an agony aunt for a parenting magazine, an amusing and poignant twist, given her constant fear that she's barely keeping her own life together. Her impostor syndrome feels incredibly relevant, especially in a world where social media often tricks us into believing that everyone else is nailing this whole parenting thing.
The book was written 17 years ago, but it still feels strikingly current. That's perhaps because the heart of it, the sense that parenting often feels like an elaborate act of winging it, remains unchanged. The novel taps into that quiet, shared truth: that no one truly knows what they're doing. Everyone is making it up as they go along, hoping not to ruin their children in the process. And when you're bombarded with constant (and often conflicting) advice from so-called experts, it's easy to feel like you're constantly getting it wrong. Cait's story reminds readers that it's OK to feel overwhelmed, and that most of us are in the same boat.
Yes, some plot elements are a little predictable, and certain moments induce a cringe or two, but that only adds to the charm. Parenting is messy, awkward and far from perfect, and the book reflects that beautifully. Whose child hasn't blurted out something cringeworthy in front of their teacher or made a scene at the most inopportune moment?
The pacing is well-judged, the humour dry and often unexpected, and the characters instantly recognisable. You'll likely find shades of people you know, perhaps even yourself, among them.
Mummy Said the F-word is a warm, funny, and thoroughly relatable read. It doesn't sugar-coat the parenting experience, but it doesn't wallow either. It's light, comforting, and reassuring in the best way possible, like a cup of tea with a friend who's happy to admit they've no idea what they're doing either.
If you've ever handed your child a fizzy drink or a packet of sweets just to buy yourself a moment of peace, even though you know you're 'not supposed to', then Mummy Said the F-word is the book for you.
Told from the perspective of Cait, a frazzled, newly single mother of three, the story opens in the aftermath of her husband's affair and abrupt departure. Left to juggle the emotional fallout of her failed marriage while trying to provide a stable home for her children, Cait's journey is as chaotic and complex as parenting itself. Her daily 'walk of shame' past the school's PTA crowd, a clique of seemingly perfect parents, is painfully familiar for anyone who's ever felt like the odd one out at the school gates.
As Cait stumbles through the early stages of single parenthood, she leans heavily on her network of friends, who offer both support and distraction in equal measure. Through this, she lands an unexpected role as an agony aunt for a parenting magazine, an amusing and poignant twist, given her constant fear that she's barely keeping her own life together. Her impostor syndrome feels incredibly relevant, especially in a world where social media often tricks us into believing that everyone else is nailing this whole parenting thing.
The book was written 17 years ago, but it still feels strikingly current. That's perhaps because the heart of it, the sense that parenting often feels like an elaborate act of winging it, remains unchanged. The novel taps into that quiet, shared truth: that no one truly knows what they're doing. Everyone is making it up as they go along, hoping not to ruin their children in the process. And when you're bombarded with constant (and often conflicting) advice from so-called experts, it's easy to feel like you're constantly getting it wrong. Cait's story reminds readers that it's OK to feel overwhelmed, and that most of us are in the same boat.
Yes, some plot elements are a little predictable, and certain moments induce a cringe or two, but that only adds to the charm. Parenting is messy, awkward and far from perfect, and the book reflects that beautifully. Whose child hasn't blurted out something cringeworthy in front of their teacher or made a scene at the most inopportune moment?
The pacing is well-judged, the humour dry and often unexpected, and the characters instantly recognisable. You'll likely find shades of people you know, perhaps even yourself, among them.
Mummy Said the F-word is a warm, funny, and thoroughly relatable read. It doesn't sugar-coat the parenting experience, but it doesn't wallow either. It's light, comforting, and reassuring in the best way possible, like a cup of tea with a friend who's happy to admit they've no idea what they're doing either.
April 11, 2020
This is the 3rd book by Fiona Gibson that I have read. All of these books have been about hard-done-by women who share the same thing in common; the love for their children. Although quite "samey" as the last 2 books I've read of hers - I love her wit - her hilarious accounts of the things kids say and do at the most inappropriate times, and I love the way she makes her characters so REAL. I loved the main character Cait in this book - I felt like she could be my best friend! I almost gave it 5* because it did have me spitting my wine out in unexpected fits of laughter, and I did cringe inwardly at so many of the scenarios - BUT, I just couldn't give the full 5, due to the familiarities with the previous plots. I highly recommend it though if you have children - and need a bit of a lift to make you feel like you aren't the ONLY crazy mother in the world :)
February 15, 2025
This was a nice easy and amusing read. Good for when you just need something light hearted.
Single mum. Awful ex-husband with his shiny new girlfriend. And now a scary, overwhelming new job.Bambino is a glossy, weekly parenting magazine aimed at 'yummy mummies'. Their ideal mother always looks immaculate, never lets her children watch TV and only ever eats organic food . . . So when Cait, a chaotic single mother, becomes Bambino's agony aunt, she thinks she might be the single worst person to do the job. But despite her early unwillingness, she realises gradually that the women who are writing to her really do need help. Soon she finds herself taking her own advice, not only for raising her child but also for her very messy love life . . .Can she finally become one of the "perfect" mothers that she sees reading her magazine every week? Or will she always be one step behind?And, after all this time, will she be able find true love?
Single mum. Awful ex-husband with his shiny new girlfriend. And now a scary, overwhelming new job.Bambino is a glossy, weekly parenting magazine aimed at 'yummy mummies'. Their ideal mother always looks immaculate, never lets her children watch TV and only ever eats organic food . . . So when Cait, a chaotic single mother, becomes Bambino's agony aunt, she thinks she might be the single worst person to do the job. But despite her early unwillingness, she realises gradually that the women who are writing to her really do need help. Soon she finds herself taking her own advice, not only for raising her child but also for her very messy love life . . .Can she finally become one of the "perfect" mothers that she sees reading her magazine every week? Or will she always be one step behind?And, after all this time, will she be able find true love?
August 6, 2025
When feeling under the weather a Fiona Gibson book is the best tonic: even though this was published 14 years ago it still feels current. It was fun, a little bit sad and a really enjoyable easy read. Can’t living the happy housewife,mum role and then Husband Martin drops a bombshell,
Cait isn’t a victim which is very satisfying, she has a few ups and downs but navigates everything perfectly even when she can feel herself losing her oldest son. Lots of changes and lots of laughs.. a real pick me up
Cait isn’t a victim which is very satisfying, she has a few ups and downs but navigates everything perfectly even when she can feel herself losing her oldest son. Lots of changes and lots of laughs.. a real pick me up
December 28, 2017
In one sitting
I developed a cold on Boxing Day and I spotted this book on Amazon and thought that it sounded worth reading plus my tourette's has been a nightmare recently so I thought why not....
And I'm glad I did too. I've been up all night and it was was a brilliant read too. 😸😸😸
I developed a cold on Boxing Day and I spotted this book on Amazon and thought that it sounded worth reading plus my tourette's has been a nightmare recently so I thought why not....
And I'm glad I did too. I've been up all night and it was was a brilliant read too. 😸😸😸
June 13, 2018
I really loved this book - by far the best I've read by Fiona Gibson. Shades of Sophie Kinsella/Mill Mansell maybe? Whatever the case, it was a very real account of one woman's journey and I found it really affected me. Frankly if I'd been the mummy in the story, I would have been saying more than the F word at times. So very real, but also very funny. Highly recommended!
September 22, 2019
This book is filled with, madness and laughter. Funny and real at the same time.
Follow Cait’s rom-com life after becoming a single parent to 3 kids. This story is very relatable with the trials and tribulations of blended families, whilst trying to maintain a career and relationships.
This is the first book I have read by Fiona Gibson and not the last.
Follow Cait’s rom-com life after becoming a single parent to 3 kids. This story is very relatable with the trials and tribulations of blended families, whilst trying to maintain a career and relationships.
This is the first book I have read by Fiona Gibson and not the last.
October 8, 2017
Amusing
I enjoyed reading this book. It is amusing and light hearted. Probably more suited to a younger age group than myself. (pensioner)
I have read a few books by this author and enjoyed them all.
I enjoyed reading this book. It is amusing and light hearted. Probably more suited to a younger age group than myself. (pensioner)
I have read a few books by this author and enjoyed them all.
December 23, 2017
Thank the lord
It's nice to know that you aren't the only one.........
If you are looking for a read that makes you feel that as a parent you are (passingly) normal and gives you a good laugh along the way then this, is hands down, the book for you
It's nice to know that you aren't the only one.........
If you are looking for a read that makes you feel that as a parent you are (passingly) normal and gives you a good laugh along the way then this, is hands down, the book for you
August 8, 2019
Good read, funny and not 'out dated'!
Relates to real life, the reader can picture the scenes quite easily. Recommend for all those parents out there going through what Cait is going through.
Relates to real life, the reader can picture the scenes quite easily. Recommend for all those parents out there going through what Cait is going through.
October 1, 2019
Light-hearted easy read
Fully relatable story of parenthood, whether going alone or in a relationship. Caitlin captures the need to feel accepted as she tries to juggle life with children & be herself, enjoyable read 😀
Fully relatable story of parenthood, whether going alone or in a relationship. Caitlin captures the need to feel accepted as she tries to juggle life with children & be herself, enjoyable read 😀
May 18, 2024
Loved this book. Plenty laugh out loud moments! Caitlin’s husband has just announced that he slept with someone else and he’s leaving her and their 3 kids. Then Caitlin gets a job as an agony aunt in a parenting magazine that she’s not sure she can do as well as being a single mum.
April 13, 2025
Great relatable story
Fab easy read, takes you back to the dreaded early years of raising children. Funny with a little twist when you thought you had it all worked out. Love Fiona Gibson, pleasurable reads.. always.
Fab easy read, takes you back to the dreaded early years of raising children. Funny with a little twist when you thought you had it all worked out. Love Fiona Gibson, pleasurable reads.. always.
August 7, 2025
So funny
This book made me laugh so much.
Just a warning though,........... Do not read it in public, I got so really strange looks from people while sitting in the sunshine laughing out loud at some of the anecdotes.😂😂😂
This book made me laugh so much.
Just a warning though,........... Do not read it in public, I got so really strange looks from people while sitting in the sunshine laughing out loud at some of the anecdotes.😂😂😂
March 6, 2017
3.5 stars
September 25, 2017
Loved it
Absolutely loved this book it relates to every day life with children and partners. Made me laugh out loud as well as making me smile. Highly recommend this book.
Absolutely loved this book it relates to every day life with children and partners. Made me laugh out loud as well as making me smile. Highly recommend this book.
October 1, 2017
Lovely, lovely, lovely!!
How I laughed and cried, a must-read for anybody who has or is considering men for children. Not necessarily in that order. Fantastic read. 😄
How I laughed and cried, a must-read for anybody who has or is considering men for children. Not necessarily in that order. Fantastic read. 😄
June 5, 2018
Brilliant
I have read several of her books and this one is the funniest so far. Can't wait to go onto the next one. Well conveNtional Gibson
I have read several of her books and this one is the funniest so far. Can't wait to go onto the next one. Well conveNtional Gibson
July 10, 2018
Loved it, very funny in parts, the chaotic life of the single mum with three children, would recommend.
December 12, 2019
Leuk boek, over normale moeders, normale relaties en vriendschappen.
April 11, 2020
Quite funny
June 8, 2020
This may be not a story worth 5 stars as it was quite predictable, but when I book makes you laugh out loud, it deserves 5 stars. I am really loving this author.
July 25, 2020
An excellent read!
At times inspiring, cringeworthy, edge-of-your-seat gripping, delightful, scary, hopeful, charming and exciting, this is a delightful read from start to finish!
At times inspiring, cringeworthy, edge-of-your-seat gripping, delightful, scary, hopeful, charming and exciting, this is a delightful read from start to finish!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews